Father’s Day is the perfect excuse to gather the family, raise a glass, and treat Dad to a meal he’ll remember. Across Melbourne and beyond, venues are serving up everything from hearty barbecue buffets to fine dining chef’s menus — with some even adding extra touches just for Dad.
We’ve rounded up top spots across Melbourne, plus kid-friendly CBD restaurants and bonus activities. Get ready to plan a Father’s Day in Melbourne Dad will love!
WHEN IS FATHER’S DAY 2025?
Father’s Day is on Sunday 7th September 2025.
Father’s Day Lunch Specials in Melbourne
1. Melbourne Zoo – Footy-Themed Lunch
If Dad’s a sports lover, Melbourne Zoo is turning up the fun with a footy-themed Father’s Day lunch.
Expect hearty, game-day-inspired fare and a relaxed atmosphere that’s perfect for all ages. Spend the morning meeting the animals, then sit down to a meal that’s all about great food and good company.
Melbourne Zoo, Elliott Avenue, Parkville VIC 3052
If you’re in the east, Healesville Sanctuary is hosting a special Father’s Day BBQ this year.
2. Bar Distrikt Melbourne – Buffet Lunch
Celebrate Father’s Day with a generous buffet spread at Bar Distrikt. The whole family can enjoy a wide range of dishes — from fresh salads to hot mains — in a vibrant, welcoming setting. I know my family loves to graze and try a bit of everything (kids and grown-ups!)
Bar Distrikt, Melbourne Mercure, Southbank, 9 Riverside Quay, Southbank VIC 3006
3. Berth, Docklands – A La Carte + Specials
Located right on the water, Berth is serving its full a la carte menu alongside one-day-only specials. With panoramic views of Victoria Harbour, it’s a top pick for a scenic Father’s Day celebration.
Berth, 45 NewQuay Promenade, Docklands VIC 3008
4. Hyatt – Barbecue Buffet Lunch at Collins Kitchen
If Dad’s a barbecue enthusiast, Collins Kitchen at the Hyatt is hosting a barbecue buffet lunch with a wide selection of grilled meats, fresh salads, and indulgent desserts. A feast fit for the occasion.
Collins Kitchen, 123 Collins Street, Melbourne VIC 3000
5. Bottarga Melbourne – Chef’s Sharing Menu
For a more refined Father’s Day, Bottarga is offering a special $125pp Chef’s Sharing Menu. Expect beautifully presented dishes showcasing seasonal produce, designed for sharing with the whole table.
Bottarga, 3/124 Martin St, Brighton VIC 3186
6. Saros Bar & Dining – Lunch and Dinner
Saros Bar & Dining is making a day of it, with both lunch and dinner sittings available. Known for their sophisticated yet approachable menu, it’s a great choice if you’re after something stylish without losing the relaxed vibe.
Saros Bar & Dining, The Sebel Melbourne Moonee Ponds, Ground floor, 41 Homer St, Moonee Ponds VIC 3039
Our Favourite CBD Restaurants for Families
Not every great Father’s Day meal needs a special set menu. These Melbourne CBD favourites are tried-and-true family-friendly spots that make dining with kids a breeze:
- Pilgrim Bar – Federation Wharf, Melbourne VIC 3000
- Riverland Bar – Federation Wharf, Melbourne VIC 3000
- Chocolate Buddha – Federation Square, Melbourne VIC 3000
- Transport Hotel – Federation Square, Melbourne VIC 3000
- Tim Ho Wan – 206 Bourke Street, Melbourne VIC 3000
- New Shanghai – Emporium Melbourne, 287 Lonsdale Street, Melbourne VIC 3000
- Operator 25 – 25 Wills Street, Melbourne VIC 3000
- +39 Pizzeria – 362 Little Bourke Street, Melbourne VIC 3000
- Secret Kitchen Melbourne City – 222 Exhibition Street, Melbourne VIC 3000
- Musashi Ramen Bar – 181 Russell Street, Melbourne VIC 3000
- Ginza Teppanyaki – 139 Little Bourke Street, Melbourne VIC 3000
- Brunetti Oro – 250 Flinders Lane, Melbourne VIC 3000
- Dodee Paidang – 353-359 Little Collins Street, Melbourne VIC 3000
- Betty’s Burgers – 97 Elizabeth Street, Melbourne VIC 3000
More Ideas for Father’s Day in Melbourne CBD
Sometimes heading out for lunch isn’t enough. If you’d like to make a day of it, you could also:
- Take Dad to the Melbourne Cricket Ground for a tour or game-day experience.
- Explore Melbourne’s famous street art laneways and grab coffee along the way.
- Stroll through the Royal Botanic Gardens and enjoy a picnic.
- Visit the Immigration Museum for fascinating exhibits.
- Spend time at the NGV Children’s Gallery, where kids can get creative.
- Step back in time at Cook’s Cottage in the Fitzroy Gardens.
- Be mesmerised by the below the reef at SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium.
- Stop at Seafarers Rest Park, followed by a drink at The Mission to Seafarers
With so many ways to celebrate, you can easily plan a Father’s Day that’s as relaxed or as action-packed as Dad likes.
14 Best Fathers Day Hampers for Awesome Easy Gift Giving
Father’s Day Gift Guide – 14 Cool Gifts That Dad Will Actually Use
10 Best Father’s Day Grazing Boxes in Melbourne That Will Make Dad Happy
14 Best Kids Father’s Day Books
This post contains affiliate links. If you purchase using the links there is no extra cost to you and we earn a small commission that helps us to continue to provide valuable and useful information for you.
